Area dance company CityDance Ensemble wraps up a busy season tonight with The Songwriters, a tribute to some of America’s greatest songwriters including Woody Guthrie, Sonny Terry, and Bruce Springsteen.

While CityDance consistently puts on a great program, Artistic Director Paul Gordon Emerson’s piece set to Springsteen’s music is sure to steal the show. Born to Run will use Springstein’s iconic music and legendary lyrics to showcase the spirit of youth, adventure, and growing up in America.

"Springsteen's music defined rock and roll for several generations," Emerson said. "The opportunity to stage dance to that music is both a privilege and a challenge.”

Image courtesy CityDance Ensemble

If The Boss doesn’t do it for you, CityDance also offers other pieces as part of their season finale including Folksay, featuring two guitarists playing the traditional folk songs of Woody Guthrie; Harmonica Breakdown, a tribute to the challenges and accomplishments of the common man during the Depression; On a Train Heading South, a daring piece that bravely addresses global warming; and a new duet titled Falling, featuring live musical accompaniment by harmonicist Frederic Yonnet and pianist Vince Evans.

It’s sure to be a very full evening, but CityDance’s varying selections will keep the program moving.

The company has been blogging about its work at Power. Passion. Purpose, a site that gives the audience a glimpse into the company's creative process, featuring videos and commentary.

Catch The Songwriters tonight at 8pm in the Concert Hall at the Music Center at Strathmore. Tickets are priced at $25 & $35 and are available in person, online, or by phone at 301.581.5100.

If you can get there a little early, there will be a free pre-performance panel at 6:45 p.m. at Strathmore (room 402) about the process of reconstructing American dance masterpieces.